Irwin’s Declaration (October 31, 1929) was an important statement made by Lord Irwin, the then Viceroy of India, regarding India’s political future.
What Did Irwin Say?
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The ultimate goal of British rule in India was to grant Dominion Status (self-governing status within the British Empire).
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A Round Table Conference would be held to discuss constitutional reforms for India.
Why Was This Important?
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This was the first time the British government officially talked about giving Dominion Status to India.
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It gave hope to Indian leaders that India might get more freedom.
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However, the British did not give any clear timeline for this, making Indian leaders suspicious.
Indian Response
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Congress Reaction:
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Congress leaders, especially Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose, rejected it because they wanted complete independence (Purna Swaraj), not just Dominion Status.
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Mahatma Gandhi and other moderate leaders were open to discussion but demanded clear commitments from the British.
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Muslim League and Other Groups:
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Some groups saw this as a step forward, while others felt it was just a political trick to delay full independence.
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What Happened Next?
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The Congress officially demanded "Purna Swaraj" (Complete Independence) in December 1929 at the Lahore Session.
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The First Round Table Conference (1930) was later held in London, but Congress boycotted it.
Conclusion
Irwin’s Declaration was a political move by the British to calm Indian demands for independence. However, it only made Indians more determined to fight for full freedom, leading to major events like the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930).